Recently, I attempted to run the NYC Half Marathon.Unfortunately, my race ended shortly after mile seven with a ride to the hospital for fluids.My running demise was due partly to the ninety degree August weather and dehydration, but mostly to lack of proper training.

I had meant to train when I signed up for the event, but let’s face it, there are much more fun things to train for… like agility!Reading Lisa's recent blog entry[3] on running with dogs got me thinking about training with my pups for my next long distance event.

Dr. Dawn A. Marcus, author of Fit as Fido[4], recommends starting by walking on a flat road with a goal of thirty minutes, five days per week.You can get better health benefits by exercising in small segments versus one long daily session.On the Fit as Fido website[4], Dawn has a log were you can track your daily mini-walks.

Keep in mind that humans are better suited for long distance running than dogs, so it’s important to slowly build up distance and be mindful of conditions.

Veterinarian, Dr. Marcia Smith,says in an interview for Runner’s World[5], that sore pads are an easy indicator that you’ve gone too far too fast.A gradual increase in miles will toughen up your dog’s pads, in addition to making them less susceptible to injury.She also advises against feeding a large meal before running.

Marcia stresses the importance of proper hydration and monitoring dogs for overheating even when the temperature doesn’t seem that hot.Because dogs don’t sweat, they are especially vulnerable.Watch out for slowing down, a lolling tounge, drooling, and glazed eyes.Check out the ASPCA’s Hot Weather Tips[6] for more warning signs.

Peter Larson, of Runblogger[7], trains on a regular basis with his Black Labrador, Jack.The duo runs as much as 7 miles at a time.Peter recommends holding off on running long distances with a puppy until their skeleton matures and the growth plates close (usually at around 10-14 months), a milestone commonly used in agility for determining when to start full sized equipment.

I’ve already started the Fit as Fido walking routine with one of my dogs and, unlike some of my former human exercise buddies, he’s always enthusiastic--no excuses!

For more walking tips, check out Dawn A. Marcus' web article[8] on the topic.